A racially motivated hate crime caused a church to catch fire.

The Universal Church of the Kingdom of God congregation in east Belfast is a part of a larger organization with 45 branches in the UK. This church was founded in Brazil and has been operating in Belfast since 2018. It serves a diverse community, with a weekly food bank program helping 40 families and daily services for a congregation of 70 people from various countries.

Unfortunately, last night, the church was targeted by two masked men in what is being treated as a racially motivated hate crime. The perpetrators used an angle-grinder to cut a hole in the steel shutters of the church and then proceeded to pour flammable liquid inside before setting it on fire. Thankfully, the fire was quickly extinguished by firefighters, but the damage to the shutters and front hall of the church was significant.

The attack was particularly disturbing as this church has been a source of support and aid for the community, regardless of race or creed. The pastor and his wife, who run the church, were visited by local MP and DUP leader Gavin Robinson this morning. He expressed his disappointment and condemned the attack, stating that it should not be happening in Northern Ireland. He also commended the community members who alerted the police when they saw suspicious activity.

This is not the first instance of racial violence in Belfast, with recent riots and attacks on businesses owned by Muslims and a mosque. Last year, a Muslim-run community center had to close due to repeated arson attacks. The rise in such incidents is concerning and unsettling for the community.

Religious leaders, including the East Belfast Churches Network and Rev Mervyn Gibson, have spoken out against this attack and urged anyone with information to come forward. They emphasize that racism has no place in their community and that the actions of a few should not tarnish the reputation of the people of east Belfast. They also offer their support and prayers to the congregation of UCKG HelpCentre Belfast.

It is disheartening to see such acts of hatred and discrimination in society. The police are appealing for any dashcam or doorbell footage that may help identify the perpetrators, who were last seen running down Templemore Street. It is important for the community to come together and stand against these acts of violence and racism. Let us hope that justice will be served, and that such incidents will not be repeated in the future.

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